Old Plank
Adventures
Experience the enchanting Mediterranean lifestyle along the stunning SoCal Riviera, where the soothing rhythms of the Pacific Ocean create a harmonious backdrop for your escape. Revel in up-close wildlife encounters as you indulge in exquisite creative cuisine crafted by the talented Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini.
OUR FEATURES
OUR EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
Who We Are?
Old Plank is a boutique luxury sailing charter and aquatic expedition company offering gourmet 5-star cuisine. Founded by Captain and Chef Matthew Mancini and supported by a crew of lifelong watermen, we live by the currents, plan by the tides, and follow the sun.
We share a deep passion for quality food and believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the profound peace that comes from aligning with the ocean’s rhythms. We’ve been fortunate enough to be immersed in the sea and gourmet foods and derive great joy from sharing these experiences.
What Do We Do?
We take our guests out into a safe sailing environment on the Santa Monica Bay or beyond. There, they have the opportunity to experience first-hand the joy of sailing, the rhythm of the ocean, and unique pairings of gourmet foods and wines in the sweet, briny sea air.
We catch sunrises, bake in the mid-day sunshine and relax as the sunsets and the moon rises under starry skies. We play with seals, dolphins, and whales, and catch fresh seafood to enjoy al fresco when appropriate. We live the Mediterranean dream in Southern California and share the experience with valued guests who leave the experience as family.
Our Mission
Our mission is to bring the Mediterranean lifestyle to Southern California’s ideal year-round climate. We aspire to help our guests truly relax and experience the self-healing that can occur when we slow down enough to catch up with ourselves.
Old Plank Sailing Adventures is dedicated to the pursuit of genuine happiness. Curating a safe, healing environment where guests feel comfortable, appreciated and connected with nature. The oceans can help to facilitate a deep state of relaxation for healing emotional wounds, so you can rejuvenate while enjoying creative foods in a soothing sailing environment.
Our Offering
From our luxurious 37-foot mono-hull to our 52-foot catamaran, we offer an array of adventures for group trips to Catalina, intimate morning, afternoon, sunset, or moonlight sails for you and a partner aboard the finest luxury yachts in Marina Del Rey. Our sails are private, professionally crewed and come paired with gourmet hors d’oeuvres or five-course fine dining options prepared right in front of you by Cuoco Mancini.
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sERVICES
Private Sailing Charters
Are you looking to immerse yourself in a genuinely therapeutic experience? Book a private sail aboard our luxury monohull sailing yacht, Prima Stella, and set sail into an abyss of relaxation with a dreamy Mediterranean-like experience along the Southern California Riviera. Perfect for couples or small groups of up to six passengers. Prima Stella is a federally licensed UPV sailing yacht operated by Captain Mancini, a USCG-licensed Captain who sets sail daily for the morning, afternoon, sunset, and moonlight sails. Check out our Journey Plan below to review our Therapy Sails or our full-day Seafood Market Expedition. For larger Groups of up to 12 passengers, please Inquire via the Contact Page about coordinating a Bareboat Charter option on our 52-foot luxury sailing catamaran.
Seadoo PWC Excursions
Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled adventure as you soar across the open ocean on a luxury SEADOO Personal WaterCraft (PWC). Experience the thrill of one of the fastest and most opulent personal watercrafts available while enjoying mesmerizing up-close encounters with the vibrant wildlife of Southern California. Embrace the spirit of adventure and let Old Plank Adventures amp up your excitement! Discover our captivating Guided Seadoo Adventures under the Works section, or navigate directly to Pricing to explore our enticing array of PWC journeys. Join Captain Mancini for an exhilarating guided tour along the SoCal Riviera with breathtaking views across the Santa Monica Bay to Malibu, Palos Verdes, or embark on an unforgettable journey to Catalina Island and beyond.
The Captain's Table
Indulge in a remarkable alfresco dining experience with a white tablecloth aboard the helm of Prima Stella, perfectly positioned in front of the stunningly illuminated Burton Chase Park or anchored along the picturesque shoreline of Santa Catalina Island. Chef Mancini will lead you through an extraordinary culinary journey, showcasing innovative fusions drawn from his Italian upbringing and his extensive career in top-tier fine-dining Mediterranean & Asian establishments. Influenced by his grandmother's dedication to hand-rolling pasta and creating exquisite homemade Italian pastries, Chef Mancini guarantees a five-star dining experience that can be seamlessly integrated into any sunset sailing adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your journey!
Island Adventures
Embark on an unforgettable California adventure offshore in the pristine and largely undeveloped environment of the Channel Islands, including Santa Catalina—just 37 nautical miles from our port in Marina del Rey. Prepare yourself for exhilarating activities like fishing, snorkeling, lobstering, kayaking, mountain biking, Jeep eco-tours, and hiking. These are not just pastimes; they are opportunities to ignite your adventurous spirit and create lasting memories. Book your three or four-day expedition to the crystal-clear waters of Catalina aboard the professionally captained private sailing yacht Prima Stella, which comes complete with a private chef and an expert island tour guide. If you prefer, seize the chance to hop on one of our luxury Seadoos (PWC) for a single or multiple-day Island adventure. Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by!
Hoist the Movie Skipper
Elevate your birthday celebrations or date night with a truly unique experience! Settle in on the bow or helm while we skillfully swing the boom and hoist the mainsail, turning it into a captivating screen for your favorite movie or television show. This extraordinary adventure on the water is one you won’t want to miss!
The Lobster Heist on the Captain's Dinghy
Join Captain Mancini on a late-night exhilarating adventure pirate style in the Captain’s Dinghy, the Unsinkable IIII, as we depart from Marina del Rey to exclusive lobster hotspots in Santa Monica Bay. We set off right after sunset, gliding through the serene waters under the stars and moonlight. You’ll master the art of baiting and dropping traps to catch nocturnal Pacific Lobsters, Dungeness Crabs, and Soft Shell Crabs. Whatever you catch is yours to take home! This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
(October - March) Seasonal
Yacht Delivery
Our highly skilled and USCG licensed Captain and crew are fully prepared to deliver your yacht to any destination with confidence and expertise. At Old Plank, we take pride in offering exceptional service for all your sailing charter, delivery, and consulting needs. Count on us to handle your requirements with professionalism and precision.
Corporate Housing
Are you ready to move beyond a standard hotel room? Our Luxury Corporate Housing delivers precisely what you need. Experience the perfect blend of hotel luxury and urban-style living. Discover our exceptional private luxury condos, expertly designed to meet all your corporate needs. Don’t settle for anything less—scroll down to the Works section below and click on Corporate Housing for all the details you need.
Works
Sailing Adventures
Old Plank delivers exclusive luxury private therapeutic sailing adventures every day, offering morning, afternoon, sunset, and moonlight sails—reservations are absolutely essential. Click the “Book Now” button to access our latest sailing times, which adapt throughout the year with daylight saving changes. Each sail includes complimentary gourmet hors d’oeuvres, expertly crafted by the acclaimed Chef Mancini, perfectly paired with a fine bottle of wine. If you’re ready for an exhilarating early morning or afternoon getaway, seize the opportunity to navigate the serene waters of Santa Monica Bay before the sun reaches its peak. You’ll witness the excitement of playful dolphins, majestic whales, and California sea lions as they hunt for their morning catch. Relax confidently on the helm or bow of Prima Stella, enjoying the soothing rhythms of the Pacific Ocean and a refreshing sea breeze, along with mimosas or the exceptional Captain’s coffee from his brand, Santuario, grown in the esteemed coffee triangle of Pereira and Manizales, Colombia. Do not miss the extraordinary experience of witnessing the sunset from the ocean. Embrace the therapeutic benefits of sailing with our “Therapy” package, featuring competitive hourly pricing. For an unforgettable moonlight escape, book your private sailing yacht, Prima Stella, today. Experience the breathtakingly illuminated Southern California Riviera as we leave the crowded dinner cruise boats behind, setting sail from Marina del Rey into Santa Monica Bay, all under enchanting moonlight. As night falls, the ocean’s natural nightlight will guide us to a stunning canopy of stars and planets, while we play with full spectrum underwater lighting diagrams beneath our hull. Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of the wind, crashing waves, and the calls of California sea lions, all while savoring gourmet hors d’oeuvres paired with exceptional wines from around the globe. This is the extraordinary experience you’ve been waiting for!
Guided Seadoo Adventures
Get ready to soar across the ocean on luxury Seadoos (PWC). We deliver unforgettable guided personal watercraft adventures aboard the most opulent Personal Watercrafts available. No matter if you are a beginner, intermediate, or expert rider, we have the perfect expedition that will ignite your adventurous spirit! Beginner and intermediate riders, immerse yourself in our two or three-hour Wildlife Seascape excursions. You’ll have the chance to encounter some of the Pacific Ocean’s most magnificent creatures—pelicans, sea lions, dolphins, and whales—up close and personal! For the intermediate and expert riders hungry for an extraordinary adventure, our Paradise Please and Island Seascape packages are exactly what you need. Embark on a half-day trip to Paradise Cove in Malibu or a full-day journey to Avalon or Two Harbors on Santa Catalina Island. Dive headfirst into exhilarating experiences as you fly across the ocean at high speeds, engage with incredible wildlife, and relish the thrill of anchoring and swimming to the beach. Enjoy a relaxing lunch on the pristine sands of Malibu or Catalina Island. Captain Mancini will be well-equipped with underwater GoPros and aerial drones to capture epic footage that’s perfect for your social media! Don’t miss this chance—join us now!
Island Adventures
Captain Mancini provides exclusive private gourmet sailing charters and thrilling aquatic expeditions to the Channel Islands and beyond. Only 37 nautical miles from Marina del Rey, Santa Catalina is your destination for an extraordinary adventure. Under Captain Mancini’s expert guidance, you’ll enjoy gourmet meals, engaging stories, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. As praised by Cruising World Magazine, this is undeniably “an adventure of a lifetime!” When you reach the island—whether anchored, moored, or slipped—Captain Mancini will be ready to serve exceptional meals, dine with you, or lead you on hiking trails that reveal the island’s most stunning views. You have a range of accommodation options at your disposal, from hotels and Airbnb rentals to hostels and beach camping or the ability to return home by sunset. Captain Mancini will collaborate directly with you to craft the ultimate seascape adventure that exceeds your expectations. Our sailing trips are a minimum of two days, with each sail taking 5-6 hours each way. For a quicker thrill, choose the PWC Seadoo Island Escape adventure, which allows for same-day returns with a travel time of just 1.5-2 hours each way. Don’t miss this opportunity—book your adventure today!
Old Plank Sailing Fleet
We embody purity at heart. Sailing on a luxury monohull yacht is an experience you cannot afford to miss. Join us aboard our expertly modified Islander 36.9, reimagined and refitted by Captain Mancini. We adhere to the principle of “using the right tool for the job,” and when it comes to speed at sea, nothing rivals our high-performance SEADOO Personal Watercrafts. Whatever your passion, we have the right equipment to fulfill your desires. Our flagship sailing yacht, Prima Stella, is a modernized luxury monohull that was built by Island Yachts in Costa Mesa in 1976. Designed by the renowned sailing legend Alan Gurney, this vessel underwent a remarkable redesign in 2021 by Captain Mancini. With exterior synthetic teak imported from Norway, an upgraded galley featuring glass and teak finishes, a cutting-edge helm, and state-of-the-art underwater and exterior smart lighting, along with enhanced rigging designs, Prima Stella sets a new standard for excellence. As a quintessential Islander 36.9, Prima Stella is engineered for both cruising and racing, expertly equipped for bluewater sailing and world circumnavigation. With a displacement of 1,500 gross tons, it offers unparalleled stability at sea with its fin keel and skeg rudder, achieving impressive speeds of up to ten knots. The Islander 36.9 has an esteemed reputation, having won prestigious awards in its class, and remains the top choice for passionate cruising sailors. When you sail aboard the Prima Stella, you will experience the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication under sail.
Captain's Table
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable culinary journey, whether you choose to order à la carte or indulge in a five-course farm-to-cockpit dining experience. We utilize only the finest ingredients sourced from boutique wild-caught fisheries, hydroponic gardens, and top-tier farmers’ markets to entice your palate. Captain Mancini is committed to delivering a creative and immersive dining experience, drawing from his extensive travels, family traditions, and exceptional hospitality background. He takes immense pride in showcasing sustainable fare and has a direct partnership with Omega Blue, which collaborates with artisanal farmers and fishermen to provide the purest, most nutritious seafood available on the eastern Pacific coast. As you enjoy each meticulously crafted dish, Captain Mancini will expertly pair your meal with select fine wines from around the globe. Experience the intimacy of a refined dining atmosphere with elegant table settings, all while witnessing the artistry of cooking live at your table. To top it off, he will serve gourmet desserts inspired by his Italian childhood and freshly roasted coffee sourced from Santuario beans grown in the renowned coffee triangle of Pereira and Manizales, Colombia. This exceptional dining experience can be seamlessly added to any sunset sail for just $200 per plate, accommodating up to six guests. Please be aware that this pricing does not include California state tax, and optional gratuity. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity!
Captain's Lobster Heist
Get ready for the ultimate blend of excitement and relaxation on this unforgettable adventure! We set off after sunset, navigating through the marina to the captain’s exclusive lobster spots. Once we arrive, Captain Mancini will guide you through the process of baiting, dropping, and setting traps for Pacific Spiny Lobsters, Dungeness Crabs, and Soft Shell Crabs. Expect to learn some valuable insider tricks along the way! As we patiently wait for our dinner, immerse yourself in the soothing atmosphere of the moonlit sea while you kick back in the captain’s dinghy, The Unsinkable IIII. This is an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Yacht Deliveries
Captain Mancini is your go-to choice for vessel delivery services up to 100 tons. With over 6,000 hours of logged delivery experience, he has expertly transported yachts along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Mediterranean coastlines of Europe. Trust Captain Mancini to deliver your vessel safely and efficiently.
Image location & Film Production
Are you ready to elevate your project to new heights? We have the perfect location you need! Choose from an impressive selection of options, including docks for dynamic shooting or stunning vessels for breathtaking sailing shots. With Captain Mancini at the helm, your vision will become a reality! We specialize in partnering with both local and international production companies seeking top-notch sailing yachts and Seadoos for film, television, and photoshoots. Captain Mancini is an IMDb-accredited professional with a wealth of experience, including the FYI Network’s show “Arranged,” along with numerous commercials and music videos produced by Born Ready Films and American Aircraft Productions. He is also an award-winning writer and producer for his acclaimed short film “Mercy-Less.” Armed with a BFA from Arizona State University, Captain Mancini has appeared on “NCIS” and in major films like “He’s Just Not That Into You” and “Yes Man.” Old Plank has a proven track record of helping clients successfully bring their commercials, TV shows, and lifestyle shoots to fruition. Our impressive clientele includes industry leaders such as PLAYBOY, LoLa Blankets, GQ, BUMBLE, and VICE. Seize the opportunity to collaborate with a true expert in the field!
Corporate Housing
Overview
This exceptional luxury condo-style home defines its own unique character. Kick off your shoes by the sea, relax, and indulge in spa-like comfort in this hidden gem within a secret garden. Enjoy the privilege of picking fresh herbs & produce from the Captain’s private hydroponic garden. Upon entering this space, you will encounter a sanctuary that exudes peace and serenity, complete with striking Mediterranean and oriental modern decor.
The Space
If you’re seeking an escape from the chaos of city life, Marina del Rey is your ultimate destination. Nestled next to the vibrant Venice Beach, take advantage of countless opportunities to bask in the salty air and perfect weather while dining, drinking, and shopping. Located in the heart of “Silicon Beach,” this area is ideal for career growth, with many leading tech companies just a bike ride away.
Guest Access
You will have exclusive access to the entire home. Additionally, enjoy the full range of amenities at the community resort, including a pool, hot tub, pool house with a billiards table, theater room, and saunas. Don’t miss out on this unparalleled living experience!
team
Seeking Employment?
Think you are a water loving seaman or sealady? Join our team by clicking on the "employment" page and send us your resume. Your mug shot could be here soon!
FEEL THE OCEAN BREEZE, SAVOR GOURMET DELIGHTS
Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in a luxury sailing adventure. From breathtaking sunsets to five-star cuisine prepared onboard, we invite you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience the rhythm of the sea.
Pricing
Chose Your Journey Plan
THERAPY SAIL
PRIVATE SAILING ADVENTURES
Private gourmet sailing adventures available from sunrise to late night moon light.
HOURLY RATES
2-HOUR MINIMUM TO SANTA MONICA AND MALIBU
- 2 HOUR RATES
-
$350 1-2 Persons
$400 3-6 Persons
- 3 HOUR RATES
-
$450 1-2 Persons
$600 3-6 Persons
- 4 HOUR
-
$600 1-2 Persons
$800 3-6 Persons
FOR LARGE PARTY ACCOMMODATIONS UP TO 12 PLEASE REACH OUT TO US VIA OUR CONTACT PAGE
Slot times depends on time of year to best fit all sails into a full day.
End of March-November (3-4 slots daily).
End of November-Beginning of March
(2 slots daily)
SEAFOOD MARKET EXPEDITION
PRIVATE SAILING ADVENTURE
(FULL DAY 8 Hours)
Private sailing adventures from Marina del Rey to Kings Harbor Marina
- 10 AM -6 PM Early Day
- 12:30-8:30 PM Late Day
Time Slot Can Change Due to Daylight Savings Hour.
2-2.5 hour lunch at Quality Seafood Market (price excludes what you spend at the market)
- 8 HOURs Duration
- $1200 1-2 Persons
- $1600 3-6 Persons
Slot times depends on time of year, and dock availability
Price Excludes Ca State Tax 9.5% and Los Angeles County Group Docking Fee.
HOIST THE MOVIE SKIPPER
EPIC IMAX MOVIE NIGHT
After our sunset sail we will dock and hoist the main to project any movie, documentary, or TV show.
Beautiful scenic main channel view w/ full spectrum underwater lighting to add to our incredible ambience!
Can be added on to any full price sunset sailing adventure
- $250 venue fee
-
2.5 hour duration
Up to 6 Guests
Excludes 9.5% tax and Los Angeles County Group docking fee
ISLAND SEASCAPE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO SANTA AVALON OR TWO HARBORS ON SANTA CATALINA ISLANDS
THE MOST EPIC FUN YOU WILL EVER HAVE IN YOUR LIFE!
- FULL DAY SUNRISE TO SUNSET
- $1,800 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Includes 9.5% Ca State Tax, Fuel Cost, Landing / Docking Fees to Mooring Balls and Shore Boat Fees Back and Forth from Island to Mooring Balls.
YACHT DELIVERIES
CONTRACTED YACHT DELIVERIES
Need a captain to deliver your yacht for you?
- DAILY RATES
- $380 Per Day
Does not include fuel, crew and any provisions needed
WILDLIFE SEASCAPE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO SANTA MONICA OR MALIBU.
- 2 HOUR (SANTA MONICA)
- $450 1-2 PERSONS
- 3 HOUR (MALIBU)
- $617 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Do Not Include 9.5% Ca State Tax and Small Fuel Cost
PARADISE PLEASE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO PARADISE COVE IN MALIBU AND BACK
THE MOST FUN YOU CAN LEGALLY HAVE ON THE WATER!!!!!!
- 1/2 DAY EXPEDITION
- $700 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Do Not Include 9.5% Ca State Tax and Small Fuel Cost
Captain's Lobster Heist
GUIDED LOBSTER CATCHING ADVENTURE
Straight to the source, wild caught Santa Monica Bay Pacific Lobster, Dungeness and Soft Shell Crab.
Incudes All Traps, Bait, Live Tank, and Fuel.
- 3 HOUR RATES
- $350 1-4 PERSONS
Testimonials
What our clients say
Old Plank Sailing Adventures was hands down the most incredible sailing trip we’ve ever taken. From the moment we stepped aboard, Captain Matthew and his crew made us feel like VIPs. The gourmet meal was five-star restaurant quality, and watching the sunset while sipping fine wine was pure bliss!
Traveler
Sailing under the moonlight with a glass of champagne in hand—what could be better? The attention to detail, the luxurious yacht, and the fresh seafood made this experience unforgettable. We saw dolphins swimming alongside us, and the crew was beyond accommodating. Can't wait to book again!
Traveler
I’ve been on many yacht charters, but Old Plank Sailing Adventures truly stands out. The gourmet dining experience was simply exquisite. The freshly prepared seafood and wine pairings were perfect. You can tell that Captain Mancini’s passion for food and sailing shines through in every detail.
American Singer-Songwriter
From the moment we stepped onto the yacht, we knew we were in for something special. The service was impeccable, the views were breathtaking, and the food was beyond anything we expected on a sailing trip. Truly a dream experience!
need something
Frequently asked questions
We have one dedicated service human available for expedited service. To reach our sole employee, text me directly at +1 818.644.0081.
Captain Mancini is also reachable by phone; however, keep in mind that he spends part of each month at his coffee farm in Colombia. The high altitudes of the haciendas can make phone conversations challenging, and roaming charges may apply. To ensure you receive five-star customer service, we strongly recommend communicating via text. This allows him to address your needs efficiently and effectively.
I love a woman in stilettos, but not when my vessel is heeled over while sailing. It gives me anxiety, and my insurance policy doesn’t cover stiletto damage. Not to mention, they are not the best swimming shoes. So, please leave your stilettos, high heels, low heels, mid heels, and wedges at home. Instead, wear comfortable shoes like flip-flops, sneakers, boat shoes, etc. Gentlemen, please do not wear dress shoes or shoes with wooden bottoms or slippery surfaces. (Update: Roller skates or shoes with fold-out wheels and remote controls are not considered shoes, despite the fact that they go on your feet.) (Final update: We’ll leave ALL shoes in the dockside basket unless you have a prosthetic foot.) Please bring or wear a warm pair of socks to use onboard the yacht, as all shoes will be left in the dockside basket. (Note: November to April is whale season with cooler temperatures, so please dress warmly in layers. Ensure these layers are not restricting, so you can function properly or catch a glimpse of dolphins or a breaching whale without being stuck staring at the sky like little Ralphie Parker from "A Christmas Story." I recommend gloves instead of mittens so you can quickly grasp the lifelines and running rigging while moving around the yacht. If you are unsure about the difference between gloves and mittens, please inquire with your Alexa.
BOOKING VIA WEBSITE: If you booked via the website you are submitting a request for sail. Once the sail is accepted by Captain Mancini he will follow up with you with a Docusign for a charter agreement to the email you provided, Once this agreement is signed you will receive a conformational text with all your booking details to the number you provided in the booking request. BOOKING VIA TEXT: For those who booked via text message, once payment is received you will receive a Docusign charter agreement sent to the email you proved via text. Once the Docusign is completed you will receive a conformational text with all the information for your upcoming sail, including time, date, tax information, what to bring, and parking details!
For the Fastest Checkout, click the Book Now button and check out with Apple Pay. We also accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Amex, and Mobile Apps, including Venmo, Cash App, WeChat, Paypal, and Certified Organic Chickens.
All bookings are final. Do not book unless you are completely sure you will be able to make your adventure. Adventures can be reschedule to another date up to 24 hours after booking unless it is booked with less than 24 hours notice. Captain has the right to reschedule any adventures that may endanger guests in weather conditions that are deemed unsafe for the client. These conditions includes, rain, small craft advisories, gale warnings, hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, etc. In the case of a cancelled adventure we will reschedule for our next availabilities or you will be issued a gift certificate for a later date.
To book your adventure quickly, click the “Book Now” button, select the adventure you want, and choose an available time slot on the calendar. Complete your checkout using Apple Pay or manually entering your credit card information. For expedited service, please text me at +1 818.644.0081. Include your first and last name, the adventure type you want, your requested date, and your cell phone number. I will respond promptly with available time slots—so don’t wait!
Captain Obvious
Serious Captain